BetGenius has addressed claims of game manipulation in Ukraine, asserting they were targets of an intricate plot.
Amidst the COVID-19 restrictions, there was a rise in football wagering fraud, encompassing a series of dubious contests held in Ukraine in late March. These games, arranged as an exhibition tournament dubbed the “Yaso Cup,” featured four lower-tier Ukrainian teams. BetGenius, a sports information supplier, furnished data on the matches, and numerous sportsbooks, including BetFred, BWin, and 188bet, launched betting options. Estimates suggest that up to £100,000 ($124,000) was staked on these games.
BetGenius insists the matches were presented via official avenues and appeared authentic, causing them and many of their sportsbook partners to become ensnared in the deception. They employed a regional analyst to gather information, underscoring the challenge of identifying such complex schemes. While acknowledging the deceitful actions, BetGenius stresses that these matches were not “phantom games,” implying a degree of coordination and involvement that lent them an air of legitimacy.
Our tournament security measures require that our data analysts confirm the legitimacy of the games using audio-visual methods, guaranteeing that the contests actually occurred. We have since discovered, however, that these matches were not officially authorized and may have been compromised by unlawful organizations for illicit gains.
The subsequent stage of the competition, initially planned for March 27th, with the championship and consolation match on March 28th, was abandoned. All operations stopped on March 29th, and the social media page was removed.
The Football Federation of Ukraine declared that no formal games were allowed because the nation was still under COVID-19 quarantine measures, rendering these matches unfeasible and clearly manufactured to influence wagering platforms.
Nevertheless, BetGenius asserts that some matches did transpire, even without complete endorsement. The organization maintains they possess proof of the games and are prepared to collaborate with the Ukrainian FA and regional officials to uncover the truth of the matter.
Genius Sports, the parent organization of BetGenius, has terminated coverage of lower-tier Ukrainian soccer.